A small number of children with Wilms tumor also have a syndrome caused by abnormal genes, such as:
Some birth defects may increase the chance of Wilms tumor. For example, a boy with defects of the penis or testicle may be more at risk. Talk with your child's healthcare provider if you want more information about these conditions.
Symptoms can occur a bit differently in each child. They can include:
The symptoms of Wilms tumor can be like other health conditions. Make sure your child sees a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
Your child's healthcare provider will ask about your child's health history and symptoms. He or she will examine your child. Your child may have tests such as:
Most children with Wilms tumor can be cured. Treatment will depend on the stage and other factors. Your child will be treated by specialists with experience in treating Wilms tumor. They may include a pediatric surgeon and a pediatric cancer specialist (oncologist). The cancer can be treated with any of the below:
Your child will need follow-up care during and after treatment to:
Some treatments may be hard on your child, but they increase the chance of your child living a long time. Discuss the side effects of treatment with your child's healthcare provider.
With any cancer, how well a child is expected to recover (prognosis) varies. Keep in mind:
Possible complications can include:
You can help your child manage his or her treatment in many ways. For example:
Your child may need to:
Call the healthcare provider if your child has: